Social Media Manager

Job Summary:

We are seeking a creative and strategic Social Media Manager to lead the social media presence for the PPA Tour. The ideal candidate will have strong writing and storytelling skills, excellent communication abilities, and a passion for pickleball. This role involves developing and executing social media strategies, managing content creation, fostering a vibrant community, and analyzing performance metrics to optimize our online presence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and Implement Social Media Strategies: Create, manage, and execute social media strategies across multiple platforms (Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, LinkedIn, etc.) to increase brand awareness, fan engagement, and overall reach.
• Content Creation: Collaborate with the marketing team to produce high-quality, engaging content, including text posts, images, videos, and other digital formats. Tailor all content to reflect PPA Tour’s voice and resonate with its audience.
• Strong Writing & Storytelling: Craft compelling narratives around players, matches, and events to drive fan engagement and build a deeper connection with the pickleball community.
• Community Management: Monitor and actively engage with followers, responding to comments and messages promptly to foster a positive and enthusiastic community around PPA Tour.
• Analytics and Reporting: Track and analyze social media performance metrics using tools like Google Analytics, Hootsuite, or Sprout Social. Provide regular reports and insights to the marketing team, adjusting strategies based on data-driven insights.
• Collaboration: Work closely with other departments, including sponsorship, PR/communications, and event operations, to ensure a cohesive and unified brand message across all channels.
• Trend Analysis: Stay up-to-date with the latest social media trends, tools, and best practices. Identify and integrate new opportunities into the social media strategy, with a focus on staying ahead in the sports and entertainment industries.
• Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with pickleball influencers, brand ambassadors, and athletes to amplify PPA Tour's reach and engagement.
• Crisis Management: Develop and execute crisis communication strategies for any potential social media issues or negative publicity, ensuring PPA Tour's reputation remains intact.

Qualifications:

• Experience: Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in social media management, preferably within sports or entertainment.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, or a related discipline is preferred.
• Skills:
• Proficiency in social media platforms and tools (e.g., Metricool, Meltwater, Adobe Suite, Canva).
• Strong writing and editing skills with a keen attention to detail.
• Creativity and the ability to generate innovative ideas.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and metrics to refine strategy.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• Knowledge of Pickleball: Passion for and knowledge of pickleball is a must.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with graphic design and video editing software.
• Familiarity with SEO principles and content marketing.
• Previous experience in sports leagues, particularly within emerging or niche sports.